Guardians vs. White Sox prediction, best bets: Parker Messick confuses Chicago’s lineup in Game 4

Malik Smith previews Game 4 of the American League Division Series between the Cleveland Guardians and Chicago White Sox, backing Cleveland starter Parker Messick to record over 5.5 strikeouts. The Guardians kept their season alive with a nine-run victory in Game 3 and must win again to force a deciding Game 5.

Smith highlights Chicago's high strikeout rate throughout the postseason, noting their 33.2 percent mark leads all playoff teams. With White Sox opener Hagen Smith taking the mound opposite Messick, the writer expects Messick to take advantage of Chicago's aggressive plate approach if he works deep enough into the game.